The former Schoen’s Furniture Building, located at 612 Hamilton Street in downtown Allentown and originally constructed in 1910, has been reimagined as the Trifecta Technologies Building. The architectural transformation included designing and preparing construction documents for a comprehensive core and shell renovation.
A major design challenge was the western façade, which was wavy and out of plumb by as much as 12 inches in places rendering traditional punched windows unfeasible. The innovative solution was to implement a glass curtain wall system that attaches to the structural frame but projects outward to overcome the irregular surface. This approach not only resolved structural issues but also brought in daylight and highlighted sweeping views of the city.
Interior renovations reconfigured the core and shell to accommodate commercial use on the upper and lower levels and restaurant space at street level. Vertical circulation systems, lobbies, and corridors were redesigned to meet modern code requirements and support the building’s new functions.
Adjacent to the building, a thoughtfully designed “Pocket Park” provides a small urban oasis between the building and the neighboring church. It offers the community a welcoming space to relax, view public art, enjoy live music, or dine outdoors.
